Mechanochemistry: A Key Step Toward the Long-Awaited Green and Low-Emission Chemistry

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Characterized by its use of mechanical energy, minimal solvents, shorter reaction times, and higher efficiencies, mechanochemistry significantly reduces the carbon footprint in an industry that accounts for 5% of European emissions.

Sergi Arfelis is completing his PhD at the UNESCO Chair in Life Cycle and Climate Change at ESCI-UPF, and this study is a key part of his doctoral thesis on the environmental benefits of mechanochemistry, particularly in the fight against climate change. The research, published in the prestigious journal Heliyon, also involved Dr. Alba Bala and Dr. Pere Fullana, supervisors of the thesis, along with researchers from the Swiss start-up DEASYL and universities in Córdoba, Málaga, Compiègne, Montreal, and Chimie Paris-Tech.

Published under the title «Linking Mechanochemistry with the Green Chemistry Principles», the study reviews techniques that enable the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients and cutting-edge materials, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and nanomaterials. These innovations have wide-ranging applications in sectors including water treatment, biomass valorization, and energy storage.

The findings highlight the effectiveness of mechanocatalysis in reducing emissions and waste, promoting the adoption of cleaner technologies in energy-intensive industries.

For instance, in 2024, we conducted a study on the valorization of biomass derived from wood waste in collaboration with Deasyl, WAB-Group, and the University of Girona. This research compared the technical, economic, and environmental impact of mechanochemical versus traditional approaches.

Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This research, along with other studies within the UNESCO Chair’s line of work on new materials and technologies, makes a valuable contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in responsible production and climate action, as promoted by UNESCO. The findings demonstrate that mechanocatalytic processes can be implemented on an industrial scale, marking a milestone in the transition toward a safer and more sustainable chemistry that minimizes environmental and human health impacts.

This breakthrough reinforces the UNESCO Chair in Life Cycle and Climate Change’s leadership in sustainability assessment for Green Chemistry, strengthening its commitment to sustainable innovation and the development of environmentally respectful industrial solutions.